Virginia Rail

23 cm (9") Fairly common and widespread across North America in fresh and salty marshes and wetlands.

Robin-sized rail with long slender slightly downcurved bill. Dark gray head; rusty neck, underparts, and wing coverts; sides strongly barred black and white.

Seldom flies. Flight is weak with legs dangling below. Half the size of similar King and Clapper Rails.

Heard more than seen.

Song: distinctive metallic "kid-ick, kid-ick" or "ticket-ticket".

Videos

Images

Credit: Mike Baird

Credit: Doug Greenberg

Credit: Don Henise

Credit: Mark Peck

Distribution Maps

Virginia Rail winter distribution map

Virginia Rail distribution map